A. Formal Qualities

A. Identification and Analysis of Formal Qualities

(6 marks, SL & HL)
Key Vocabulary:

• Formal Elements: line, shape, form, space, tone, color, texture, light, value, scale, proportion.

• Principles of Design: balance, contrast, rhythm, emphasis, harmony, pattern, unity, variety, movement.

• Technical Terms: composition, focal point, perspective, symmetry, asymmetry, saturation, hue, palette, brushwork, modeling, layering, carving, etching.

• Analytical Verbs: identify, analyze, examine, interpret, assess, investigate, describe precisely.

• Qualifiers: consistent, insightful, informed, detailed, nuanced.

To score in the top band, you must accurately identify each artwork with all relevant details (title, artist, date, medium, size, location, cultural context) and provide a consistent, insightful analysis of its formal qualities. Go beyond description and explain how the elements and principles are used to create meaning, mood, and impact. Show that you understand the relationship between visual choices and their effects on the viewer.
Tips:

• Use precise art vocabulary for both elements (line, color, texture) and principles (balance, contrast)

• Support your points with specific visual evidence from the work

• Avoid vague words like “nice” or “pretty” and replace with analytical terms like “harmonious palette” or “dynamic diagonal composition”

Additional Resources on this Scoring Criterion: https://branksome-asia.libguides.com/ArtCS/Formalqualities 

Example: